Proper storage is very important when taking care of your jewellery. Different gemstones have varying levels of hardness, so you risk scratches if they're stored in the same place and knock against each other.
Make sure it's kept away from direct sunlight, anywhere with extreme hot or cold temperatures or anywhere exposed to damp. To stop silver from oxidising, consider keeping your jewellery in airtight bags that will also protect it from dust. Also, use silica gel packs to absorb any moisture and sulphur in the air that makes jewellery lose its shine.
If one of your rings has sentimental value, like an engagement or wedding ring, and you wear it every day, it's a good idea to have it resized when it becomes a bit too big or small. You don't want your ring to feel tight and uncomfortable, yet you don't want to worry about it slipping off your finger and losing it. Top tip – the perfect sized ring should slide on easily but give a little bit of resistance when you try to take it off.
Wear your jewellery carefully. You can protect precious pieces by putting them on last so they don't get caught on clothing and by applying your makeup and hairspray first, so you reduce the risk of contamination or discolouration.
Remember to remove jewellery before doing any manual work so that it isn't damaged by knocks or household cleaners. Also, make sure you take off your earrings when your hair is being styled so it doesn't get caught on combs and brushes.
Treating your jewellery to a professional clean can extend its lifespan, but it's understandable that you might not want to fork out all the time! Do some gentle cleaning at home and you can get your jewellery looking like-new again. It doesn't take pricey cleaning materials either – you can clean your jewellery using everyday items that you'll find around your house!
Give your jewellery the chance to sparkle again, whilst helping to extend its lifespan by using our top tips to properly care for and clean all of your precious pieces.